When it comes to filling equipment for packaging automation, there are two main types: gravity fed and pump fed. So how do you know which type is right for your business? In this blog post, we will discuss the pros and cons of each type of filling equipment and help you decide which is the best option for you.
What is a “Gravity Fed” Filling Process?
A gravity filling process uses the force of gravity to pull the product from a hopper or tank and into the filling nozzle. Gravity filling is typically used for products that are free-flowing, such as liquids, powders, and granules.
There are several benefits to using gravity filling equipment, including:
- Reduced chance of product contamination: Since gravity is pulling the product down into the filling nozzle, there is less chance of contamination from contact with other surfaces.
- Increased accuracy: Gravity filling allows for more accurate filling because it is not reliant on pumps or other moving parts to dispense the product.
- Lower cost: Gravity filling equipment is typically less expensive than pump fed equipment because it has fewer moving parts.
What is a “Pump Fed” Filling Process?
A pump filling process uses a positive displacement pump to move the product from a hopper or tank and into the filling nozzle. Pump filling is typically used for products that are viscous or have particulates, such as gels, creams, pastes, and sauces.
There are several benefits to using pump filling equipment, including:
- Increased accuracy: Pump filling allows for more accurate filling because the flow rate can be controlled very precisely.
- Greater control over fill volume: With pump filling, you have greater control over the amount of product that is dispensed with each cycle. This can be helpful if you need to package products of different sizes.
- Reduced chance of spillage: Since the product is moved by a pump, there is less chance of spillage compared to gravity filling.
Deciding between “Gravity Fed” and “Pump Fed” Filling Equipment
Now that we’ve gone over the pros and cons of each type of filling equipment, let’s talk about how to choose the right one for your business.
There are a few factors you should consider when making your decision:
– The type of product you are filling: As we mentioned before, gravity filling is typically used for free-flowing products, while pump filling is better for viscous products.
– The accuracy of the filling process: If you need a very precise filling process, pump filling may be the better option.
– The cost of the equipment: Gravity filling equipment is typically less expensive than pump filling equipment.
– The size of the product being filled: If you are filling large containers, gravity filling may be the better option.
We hope this blog post has helped you understand the difference between gravity and pump fed filling equipment and how to choose which is right for your business. If you have any questions or would like to learn more about packaging automation, please contact us today. We would be happy to help.